Derelict Vessel Removal Program
DNR's Derelict Vessel Removal Program (DVRP) is the first mechanism to address derelict or abandoned vessels in Washington State's waters.
The program provides funding and expertise to assist public agencies in the removal and disposal of vessels across the state.
Under state law, other ways to address abandoned vessels, including vessels on land, in marinas, and vessels adrift are described in WAC 308-93-275.
The following are the DVRP guidelines, with forms and other materials in the appendices. For more details and to learn more about how the program works, follow the links located at the right side of this page.
The DVRP Provides
- Reimbursement of up to 90% of the cost of removal and disposal.
- Remaining 10% of the cost can be in the form of “in-kind” services.
- Authorized public entities not able to undertake the removal of a derelict vessel may ask DNR to assume the lead.
- Priority for the use of funds is for vessels in danger of breaking up, sinking, or blocking a navigational channel, or vessels that present a risk to human health, safety or the environment.
How is the Program Funded?
DVRP funding comes from an additional $3 fee placed on annual vessel registration fees and an additional $5 fee added to the cost of obtaining a non-resident vessel permit fee. The DVRP also can accept donations. To donate to this program, contact the DVRP program manager at 360-902-1574.
Who may participate in this program?
The following authorized public entities in Washington State are eligible for this program:
DNR
Department of Fish and Wildlife
Parks and Recreation Commission
Metropolitan park districts
Port districts
Cities, towns, or counties with ownership, management, or jurisdiction over the aquatic lands where the vessel is located.
Request for Proposals
Periodically, DNR requests proposals for the removal and/or disposal of vessels determined by law to be derelict and/or abandoned. DNR posts those proposals on Washington's Electronic Business Solution (WEBS) -- the state’s central contract advertisement database.
Look for current opportunities on the WEBS
public bid calendar. In the filter option, enter “Natural Resources—Department of”.
DNR is working through the Department of Enterprise Services (DES) to create a set of contracts for emergency derelict/abandoned vessel services and to establish a pre-qualified list of vendors for non-emergency vessel-related services. For more information, view RFP 05511 through the WEBS public bid calendar (enter "Enterprise Services, Dept. of") or contact Corinna Cooper at DES 360-407-9420.
Federal Civil Rights
In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, DNR does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. However, should a person wish to file a discrimination complaint, write to:
USDA, Director
Office of Civil Rights
Room 326-W, Whitten Building
1400 Independence Avenue SW
Washington D.C. 20250-9410
or call 202.720.5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.